Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Columbia County approves first reading of new data‑center zoning amid public concerns over noise and water
Summary
The Columbia County Board of Commissioners approved a first reading of Ordinance No. 25‑07 to create a data‑center (DC) zoning classification that includes noise, setback and well restrictions; residents raised concerns about a 70‑decibel limit, water use and long‑term enforcement.
Columbia County commissioners approved the first reading of a text amendment to Chapter 90 on Nov. 18 that would create a dedicated data‑center (DC) zoning classification and add new rules for allowed uses, lot and structure requirements, buffers, lighting and generators.
The motion for first reading of Ordinance No. 25‑07 was made at the meeting and passed; a second reading will be required for final adoption. The ordinance text, as presented, includes a 70‑decibel noise limit, a 500‑foot buffer adjacent to residential and agricultural properties (with limited options to reduce that buffer), prohibitions on drilling wells inside the data‑center district, and restrictions on generator…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
